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Bobbie Wagner will take over as the new executive director of Hull’s Angels Inc. effective July 1, succeeding Lauren Summers, as she retires from her role managing the business aspects of the nonprofit community owned drive-in movie theater.
“We are excited for Bobbie to join Hull’s and continue the work that Lauren has done. This organization is so fortunate to have both these amazing people lead this community treasure,” stated Liz Schmidt, board chair of Hull’s Angels.
Wagner was most recently the executive director of the Rockbridge Area YMCA, a role she served in for seven years. She had worked with the YMCA of Virginia Blue Ridge, of which the local Y is a part, for over a decade.
Originally from Alleghany County, she has resided in Rockbridge County for seven years. She has a master’s degree in recreation administration with a focus on nonprofit management. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in recreation, parks and tourism with a focus on special events, tourism and recreation administration.
“Bobbie’s background as an executive director, combined with a deep passion for helping organizations and people thrive, will further advance the mission of Hull’s Drive-In,” said Schmidt. “She brings a magnitude of perspective and experience around business development, fundraising, community outreach, communications, and strategic operations.”
Schmidt noted that during Wagner’s tenure with the local Y, it experienced immense growth in all areas (wellness, child care, membership, youth sports, etc.) and even launched an early learning center.
Charitable giving, expanded operations and community outreach were at an all-time high, under her leadership. During the pandemic, Wagner served as a key leader providing wellness programming and emergency child care. Enrichment centers for children were launched during school closures in places such as churches, a hotel and even a local restaurant.
Since her time in Rockbridge County, Wagner has also been heavily involved in local organizations, coalitions and initiatives. She currently serves on the chamber of commerce board of directors as past president.
“I grew up going to the drive-in as a kid, so being able to serve as the incoming executive director of Hull’s is pretty nostalgic for me,” Wagner said. “We are lucky to have such a special place right here in our backyard. I am looking forward to working alongside the local board to fulfill present and future goals of the organization. We want to ensure this iconic venue is operating for present and future generations to enjoy!” - Summers joined Hull’s Angels in 2018 as the executive director, having never managed the business operation of a theater before.
“However, she brought a depth and breadth of business and marketing experience from her former career to the organization,” said Schmidt.
“When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, with Lauren at the helm, Hull’s was able to navigate the confusing and treacherous guidance for businesses to operate,” said Schmidt.
After a brief shutdown, she worked closely with the theater manager, Christian Reter, to adapt processes to allow the drive-in to still be available to the most valuable resource, the customers, said Schmidt.
Hull’s also collaborated with other local businesses and organizations to utilize the drive-in in new and innovative ways. The theater was host to broadcasts of local ceremonies and performances when indoor crowds were not allowed due to the public health concerns. Hull’s hosted local high school graduations as well as three vaccination clinics.
“Lauren’s leadership kept the theater alive through one of the most difficult times imaginable,” said Schmidt.
In September of 2020 Hull’s was faced with another challenging hurdle, as it was given first right of refusal to purchase the land the theater sits on or it was to be offered up for public sale for commercial development.
Summers worked closely with the Capital Campaign Committee to lead Hull’s Angels through a fundraising effort to secure the property. Thanks to supporters and over 1,000 capital campaign donors, Hull’s was able to purchase the property in October 2021 with only a very minimal mortgage to cover the amount between the capital campaign fundraising and the purchase price.
Summer’s attention to detail throughout the capital campaign was paramount to the success and ultimately to the property purchase.
Kevin Merrill, vice chair of Hull’s Angels, said, “To say that Lauren will be missed as she ventures into this next phase of her life would be an enormous understatement.”
Hull’s would also like to congratulate David Natkin on his retirement. Natkin has served as Hull’s registered agent with the state of Virginia for 23 years.
